FAQs about the TOEFL® test

We have put together the most frequently asked questions (FAQs) we get from English, baby! members about TOEFL®. If you do not find what you are looking for in these FAQs, you can always go to Ask Ebaby! Start your 7-day Super Free Trial now and ask as many TOEFL® questions as you like!

What is the TOEFL® test?

If you are thinking about studying in another country, you may need to take the TOEFL® test. Taking the TOEFL® test is a great way to test your level of English and is required by many universities and colleges, particularly those in the USA, for entry into their programs.

Are there different types of TOEFL® tests?

There are two types of TOEFL® tests. Depending on the location of your test center, you will either take a TOEFL iBT® test or a TOEFL® PBT test. The TOEFL iBT® is an Internet-based Test and TOEFL® PBT is a Paper-based Test. If you are not sure about which type of test you will be taking, you can find out here.

What does the TOEFL® exam cost?

How do I find out my TOEFL® score?

Your scores are mailed to you and posted online. You can also have your scores sent to four universities, colleges or institutions at no additional charge. If you need to send your score to more than four places, you need to complete an Additional Score Report Request Form. There is a US$19 charge for each additional place. Test takers can also download score reports. For all TOEFL iBT® test dates after January 1, 2015, test takers will receive, as part of their test fee, a PDF copy of their score report that they can download and print from their account. This means that test takers no longer have to wait for mail delivery to receive a copy of their score report. The PDF version will be available approximately 13 days after the test date. Downloadable score reports are currently not available for tests taken in China.

How long will it take to get my TOEFL® score?

You will receive an email letting you know when your scores are available — approximately 10 days after your test date. You can log in to your TOEFL iBT® account on the TOEFL® registration website and click "View Scores" on your home page to see your scores.

What is the difference between the TOEFL ITP® test and the TOEFL iBT® test?

The TOEFL ITP® test is given by an institution such as a language school or company so they can test your level of English. The TOEFL iBT® test, administered via the Internet, is an important part of your journey to study in an English-speaking country.

What is the highest possible TOEFL® score?

How can I improve my TOEFL® score?

The best way to improve your TOEFL® score is to practice, practice, practice! Taking Ebaby’s practice tests, grammar lessons and daily quizzes are just some of the many ways you can become more confident speaking, listening, writing and hopefully even thinking in English!

What is the minimum TOEFL® score I need to get into a university in the USA?

Although there is no official minimum score, most universities expect a score of at least 80 on the TOEFL iBT® (450 on the PBT). If you want to go to a very popular school such as Harvard or MIT, you should aim to get over 100 (650 on the PBT) to increase your chances of being accepted.

How long is my TOEFL® score valid?

Your TOEFL® score is only valid for two years. After this time, your score will be removed from the TOEFL® database and TOEFL® will not be able to send you another report of your score. Even if you have a copy of your score, most universities and institutions need your score sent directly from TOEFL®.